Branstad warns of caucus crashers

Iowa Gov. Terry Branstad warned against Democratic caucus crashers who could try to influence the Iowa selection system as a way to nominate the weakest Republican candidate to face off against President Obama.

“That’s been tried from time to time and you know what happened four years ago? A lot of independents and even some Republicans actually got involved and that actually helped Obama beat Hillary Clinton and guess what? They actually got Obama for president,” said Branstad, a Republican. “Now some of those people are having second thoughts about it.”

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Branstad made the comments today when asked about the issue from reporters. He emphasized that he hopes people choose to register Republican and participate in the caucuses for the right reasons instead of with the intent to hijack the caucuses.

“Instead of playing the political game, we ought to look at who can be the best and strongest candidate,” Branstad said.

Branstad and Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds plan to participate in Saturday’s Ames straw poll event but declined to say who they would be voting for.

Branstad called the event an expectation game.

“It’s certainly designed to be a fair, objective deal,” Branstad said, noting that Iowans must show identification to be able to vote in the Republican fundraiser.

He continued: “Now remember, it’s not scientific and you have to go to Ames and it costs $30 to participate but it’s a lot of fun.”

He responded to questions about the straw poll’s relevance.

“I think the straw poll is an important first test,” Branstad said. “It’s not just who wins it, it’s about who beats expectations. . . It’s an expectation game. It’s not only who wins but who beats expectations.”